A Family Foundation at Mandeville Modular: Legacy, Leadership, and Building with Purpose

When we talk about innovation in the modular construction industry, we often jump straight to the technology, systems, and designs. But behind every successful company is a story—and in the case of Mandeville Modular, that story starts with family, culture, and the foundational values passed down through generations.

In this installment of Advancing Prefab, we sat down with Heith Bibby, the heart behind Mandeville Modular, to explore what it really means to build a business rooted in family. While we weren’t physically at Mandeville’s headquarters, the conversation gave a clear look into the passion, people, and purpose shaping the company.

A Grandfather’s Influence, A Lasting Legacy

Heith’s journey began in Mandeville, Jamaica, a small town that would ultimately lend its name to the company. His grandfather—a farmer, builder, and life teacher—instilled core values that still guide Mandeville Modular today: honesty, humility, work ethic, and treating people with respect.

Those lessons didn’t just stick; they became the company’s DNA. From construction methods to client relationships, the guiding principle remains the same: build well, act with integrity, and never forget where you came from.

A Company Culture Built on Collaboration

For Heith, leadership isn’t about titles. At Mandeville Modular, there’s a strong belief that everyone is part of the team, no matter their role. “Whether someone is handing over a tool, sweeping a workspace, or making a key design decision, the culture is rooted in collaboration and shared accountability,” said Heith.

Team members are empowered to speak up, contribute ideas, and share in the success of each project. And when it comes to decision-making, the process is transparent and inclusive. It’s not just about getting the job done—it’s about doing it with respect and cohesion.

Heith puts it simply: “If you’re surrounded by positive people and clients who believe in the process, the work will speak for itself.”

Not All Clients Are the Right Fit—And That’s Okay

A unique insight Heith shared was the importance of choosing the right clients, not just the right projects. While it’s easy to get caught up in chasing contracts, Mandeville Modular takes a different approach. They believe that good projects come from good partnerships, and that begins with alignment in values, communication, and trust.

“If our system doesn’t work for a client, we don’t force it,” Heith said. “It has to feel right. It has to flow.”

That clarity has helped the company take on meaningful, impactful projects—ones that not only challenge the limits of modular construction but also allow for creative collaboration and mutual respect.

Milestones That Define a Builder

Two projects in particular have left a lasting mark on Heith’s career.

The first is the Golden Oaks Backlot Ranch for Disney—a massive project that required pushing the boundaries of modular and panelized construction. The opportunity to work with Disney Imagineering and art director Michael Hannon brought together creativity, technical skill, and storytelling in one unforgettable collaboration.

The second is more celestial. Mandeville Modular contributed to a facility connected to the James Webb Space Telescope—a now-iconic project that, at the time, was under wraps. Helping build the infrastructure behind one of the most advanced pieces of space technology on Earth reminded Heith just how far this journey had taken him.

A New Generation of Leadership

Family remains at the heart of Mandeville Modular, and the torch is already being passed. Heith’s son is now the head of design, bringing a fresh, creative perspective to the company while honoring the values he grew up with. Trained in architecture, he collaborates with architects, consultants, and clients to create spaces that are both functional and inspiring.

There’s something profound about watching your child grow into their role—not just as a family member, but as a professional peer. For Heith, this evolution has deepened the pride and purpose behind the business.

Hiring with Heart and Building with Purpose

It’s not just family that powers Mandeville Modular—it’s a close-knit team of individuals who share the same values. Many of them are long-time friends, colleagues, or trusted connections who found their place in the company not through resumes, but through relationships and mutual respect.

Whether it's his brother-in-law overseeing floor production or a fellow Jamaican managing operations, Heith has built a team that takes pride in their work and treats each other like family. “When people take ownership of what they do,” Heith shared, “you don’t need to micromanage. They hold each other accountable.”

Selecting Clients, Building Trust

When it comes to choosing who to work with, Mandeville Modular is as intentional with clients as they are with staff. Projects are a long-term commitment, and the relationship between builder and client must be based on trust, flexibility, and collaboration.

Heith looks for clients who understand that modular building isn’t just a product—it’s a process. And it’s one that only works when everyone is willing to co-create, communicate, and stay aligned.

A Leader Who Listens

What stood out most in this conversation was Heith’s presence. “Heith is not just as a CEO, but as a thoughtful, grounded human being. He listens. He reflects. He carries a quiet confidence that comes not from titles, but from decades of doing the work, learning from experience, and staying true to his principles,” said Audree Grubesic, founder of Offsite Dirt Network.

In a world where speed and scale often overshadow sincerity, Mandeville Modular is a reminder that success can be rooted in something deeper. Respect, humility, and hard work still matter—and when those values guide your company, clients notice, employees stay, and the projects speak for themselves.

And that’s the Dirt…

At the end of the day, Mandeville Modular isn’t just building modular systems—they’re building a legacy. From a grandfather’s wisdom in Jamaica to a multi-generational team in the U.S., it’s a story about how family, trust, and craftsmanship can create something truly lasting.

That’s the dirt on Mandeville Modular—and it’s the kind of foundation any builder would be proud to stand on.